With a crisp, blow-your-eardrums-out sound system, New Orleans-speakeasy (albeit commercial) appeal, and a nightly lineup of live entertainment, there's no better place to muse the blues than this basement-cum-nightclub. During performances, covers range, but entrance is free during happy hour (Mon-Fri 5-7pm), when there's usually recorded music, drink specials, and inexpensive snacks -- not to mention the only opportunity to socialize: Once the bands get going, it's so loud you can't even hear yourself holler. Note: A full dinner menu is available, but the only notable treat is the moist, flaky biscuits.